Plizio Visual Lab

Kungur Ice Cave

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
—°
Kungur Ice Cave (Russia)

Weather…

The Kungur Ice Cave, concealed within the western foothills of the Ural Mountains, is a spectacular geological marvel and stands as one of the largest and most captivating gypsum caves in the world. What makes this cave truly unique is its extraordinary internal microclimate: because the specific air circulation traps the bitter winter cold deep inside, large sections of the highly complex cave system remain frozen entirely year-round. Visitors wandering through the extensive, winding passages are immersed in a fairytale-like underworld, where the sprawling grottoes are adorned with sparkling ice crystals, massive stalactites formed from frozen water, and perfectly still, mirror-like underground lakes. The cave has a rich history of exploration and has been a popular tourist destination for over a century; it was, in fact, one of the very first locations in Russia to offer organized, guided cave tours.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-16-15-7111151816102-7-15
Rain mm403346486989878767715243

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The Kungur Ice Cave is accessible only via guided tours. Inside, you can see impressive ice formations and an underground lake.
🕒
Typical hours
Tours are typically scheduled several times a day, especially in winter. In summer, tours are less frequent - check local listing for current times.
📷
Photography
Photography inside is allowed, but flash may be restricted to protect ice formations. Tripods require permission from the guide.
⏱️
Time needed
A guided tour lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. Dress warmly as the cave temperature is near freezing.
Combine with
Combine the cave visit with a walk through the historic center of Kungur. The nearby Kungur River provides scenic walking paths along the bank.
🧭
Getting there
The cave is located about 100 km from Perm, reachable by car or bus. Tours often depart from the town of Kungur, which is well connected.
💡
Insider tip
Wear warm clothing and sturdy, non-slip shoes as paths can be icy. Visit in winter for the most impressive ice formations.

Geography

Coordinates
57.44000, 56.95000

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is the Kungur Ice Cave open?
It is open daily, with tours usually taking place between 10 AM and 5 PM.
How cold is it in the cave?
The temperature is near freezing all year round, warm clothing is essential.
How long does a tour take?
A standard guided tour takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
Is the cave suitable for children?
Yes, the path is safely developed, but children should be dressed warmly because of the cold.
Can you take photos in the cave?
Yes, photography is allowed, though flash can often be disruptive.
Kungur Ice Cave: where is it located?
Kungur Ice Cave is located in Russia.
Kungur Ice Cave: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kungur Ice Cave: why is it worth visiting?
The Kungur Ice Cave, concealed within the western foothills of the Ural Mountains, is a spectacular geological marvel and stands as one of the largest and most captivating gypsum caves in the world.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Russia →

Nearby cities